Mindfulness

The benefits of mindfulness and how mindfulness can positively impact wellbeing are of growing interest to psychologists and the community.

There is now some scientific research that supports various ways that mindfulness and meditation promote wellbeing during different stages and circumstances of someone’s life.

Mindfulness is best understood as one’s capacity to be present within the moment and allow oneself to engage all senses within a task in a purposeful way. Contrary to the common perception of mindfulness equating meditation, it is more an attitude and a moment-to-moment practice. It is essentially the art of being aware of sensations and emotions surrounding us and processing them as a neutral observer of our own existence, without judgement. It helps us to be fully present in the here and to connect with what matters most to us rather than running on auto-pilot.

Daily activities can be opportunities and triggers to slow down, let go of thinking and tune into our senses. For example, next time when you make yourself a cup of tea, tune in to the process – how it feels holding the mug in your hand, how it smells and how the taste lingers after your first sip. This can create moments of mindfulness in everyday life. Find out more below about mindfulness.